Alfa Romeo Hoping to Launch SUV

Alfa Romeo is planning to launch a new compact SUV that will be sold in both Europe and North America. It's intended to help revitalize the Italian brand which is planning to return to the U.S. in 2013. Competitors for the new C-segment SUV will be the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. Their current product lineup includes the Mito, Giulietta, and the 159, which is sold as both a sedan and a wagon and will likely be replaced by a new model.

The 4C sports coupe that was displayed in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show last March, will also be included. The new SUV will share a platform with a future Jeep that will replace both the Compass and Patriot. Both will be built at Fiat's Mirafiori plant in Turin with production set to begin in late 2012. Front and all-wheel-drive variants will be offered and engine choices will include a 197 hp GDI, a 145 hp 2.0-liter diesel, and a 3.3-liter variant of Chrysler's Pentastar V6 with around 270 hp. A 3.0-liter diesel is also being considered.

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Alfa is hoping to sell 50,000 units per year in North America. Pricing can be expected to be in the neighborhood of its aforementioned competitors. Sketchs displayed are of the 2003 Alfa Romeo Kamal Concept